NFL Hall of Fame Running Back Franco Harris to Penn State University
President Erickson: Rebuild Our Wall

February 19, 2013 03:00 PM Eastern Time

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The three-sided wall at Penn State University that honored the
university's football teams was constructed in 2001 as a dedication and
tribute to the football teams and players that had taken the field at
Beaver Stadium over the years. On July 24, 2012, the wall was torn down,
essentially erasing decades of on-field achievements of more than one
thousand student athletes.

“Tearing down the
wall is like tearing down every player's history. Last year's team, as
well as future teams, doesn’t even have the opportunity to be included
with us. This is especially sad knowing the wall was a symbol of team
and player unity.”

“Like the past teams and players that were represented on that wall, I
was very proud to be included and recognized for my participation in
Penn State football,” said Franco Harris, PSU '72. “Tearing down the
wall is like tearing down every player's history. Last year's team, as
well as future teams, doesn’t even have the opportunity to be included
with us. This is especially sad knowing the wall was a symbol of team
and player unity.”

In addition to the plaques commemorating each season, the wall displayed
images of a group of four players.

Harris continued, “The wall represents a rallying point for the Penn
State community and is important to everyone connected with Penn State
football: players, students, fans, faculty and alumni. Those on-field
accomplishments, including last year’s team, should be honored on the
same wall.”